Robert Rafael Fernandez de Castro

Robert Rafael Fernandez de Castro, age 59, passed away on Monday, May 4, 2015, at his townhouse on Pensacola Beach surrounded by his wife, family and friends. He was the beloved husband of Sharon Byrne Fernandez de Castro, father of Roland “Ziggy” Fernandez de Castro and father-in-law of Samantha F. de Castro. He had one beautiful granddaughter, Taylor. Robert was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on July 10, 1955 and resided in Destrehan. He was preceded in death by both his Cuban born parents; mother, Estrella, his father, Robert; also preceding him was his brother-in-law John Byrne. Robert is survived by his sisters, Estrellita Culotta( Pete) and Tania Griener; his brothers-in -law, Kevin ( Mary Ann), Steve (Alicia) and Chris (Mary Louise ) Byrne and numerous nieces and nephews , all who adored him. He worked with his father and mother in the family operated molding business, Robert F. de Castro Inc., for over 30 years. He then opened his own business, ALDEC International, to which he devoted the last 15 years of his life. Being a successful businessman and having to frequently travel internationally, his number one priority was to be with his wife, family and friends. His other passions were fishing, boating, his beloved dogs, music, dancing and intriguing everyone to partake is his “Boat Juice” concoction. Family and friends are invited to attend the memorial visitation at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, 13396 River Road, in Destrehan on Thursday, May 28, 2015, beginning at 10:00 a.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will follow at Lake Lawn Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the American Cancer Society, 2605 River Road, New Orleans, Louisiana 70121 – under the name, Robert de Castro of Destrehan, Louisiana 70047. To sign and view the Family Guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairie.com.